Therapist Spotlight

By Fernanda Badauy

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When parents become the bridge to language development

Interview with Regiane Kanso, Speech Language Pathologist Assistant at Speak Squad

At some point, every parent wonders: Is my child taking a little longer to develop – or should I worry?

In this edition of the “Therapist Spotlight,” we spoke with Regiane Kanso, a seasoned Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant with over 25 years of experience. Her answer is reassuring; “you don’t have to wait and worry — you can observe, act, and support your child with confidence.”

When is a delay a concern?

“There are research-based milestones that help us understand when a child’s communication is on track,” Regiane explains. “And yes, those benchmarks apply across languages.”

The number of words a child uses, how they’re combined, and how they react to language —are all potential clues. When a child consistently falls below these expected markers, do not panic — it’s time to be proactive.

Think of language development as a plant: Some grow quickly, others slowly. But if months go by and there’s no sprout, it’s time to check the soil.

That’s where speech therapy can come in — but even more important, that’s where parents come in.

What Can Parents Do at Home?

The most powerful, evidence-based strategies for speech development doesn’t start in a clinic — they start in the kitchen, the bathroom, the backseat, and the bedtime routine.

“Everyday moments are full of opportunities to model and build language,” says Regiane. “When you name things, describe actions, or read a book out loud you’re helping build a brain.”

Here are some simple yet transformative ways to help your child develop linguistic skills throughout their everyday life:

Bath time: “Here’s your towel! Let’s wash your hands. This is your nose!”

Mealtime: “We’re eating apples. The soup is hot. Let’s drink water.”

Playtime: “This is a truck. The cat is jumping! Let’s build a tower.”

Storytime: Even 10 minutes of reading a day has a lasting impact on vocabulary, attention, and imagination.

And you don’t have to get it perfect every time, you just have to be present and intentional.

Parents Are Not Therapists — But They Are the Key

“Parents are not professional therapists,” Regiane says gently, “but they are the most consistent and important communication partners a child will ever have.”

In therapy, the goal is not only to work with the child — but it’s also to equip parents with tools they can use every single day. When parents model language, narrate routines, and give space for children to express themselves, development doesn’t just happen in a weekly session — it happens daily at home.

You’re with your child more than anyone else. That makes you their most powerful teacher — whether you planned for it or not.

Final Thought: You’re Not Alone

If you’ve ever questioned whether your child’s speech is progressing “normally,” you're not failing. You're paying attention. That means you're already on the right path.

Want support? At Speak Squad, we don’t just work with children — we empower families. Reach out to schedule a consultation or to speak with professionals like Regiane. Communication starts with connection — and connection starts at home.

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About Regiane Kanso, SLPA

Regiane is a highly experienced Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant with over 25 years of expertise in communication and social development.

With a background in both educational and clinical settings across Canada, she specializes in supporting children with language delays, autism, and neurodevelopmental conditions.

Regiane is passionate about empowering families to become active participants in their child’s communication journey.